President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has assured Nigerians that the Federal Government will intensify efforts to rescue abducted schoolchildren and teachers across the country while strengthening security around schools in vulnerable communities.
In a statement issued to commemorate the 2026 Children’s Day celebration, the President expressed concern over the plight of children and teachers currently held captive in parts of Oyo and Borno states, describing the situation as painful and unacceptable.
Tinubu said the government would continue coordinated rescue operations until all abducted children are safely reunited with their families.
“To those children, their parents and their teachers, you are not forgotten and you are not abandoned,” the President stated.
He disclosed that security agencies have been directed to intensify intelligence-driven rescue operations while ensuring the safe recovery of victims.
The President also announced plans to strengthen school protection measures in high-risk areas through improved vulnerability mapping, stronger collaboration between state governments and security agencies, rapid emergency response systems, and community-based early warning structures.
According to him, the Federal Ministry of Education will work with state governments to deepen the implementation of the Safe Schools framework to improve safety within learning environments.
Tinubu further stressed that rescued children must receive adequate rehabilitation, including healthcare, counselling, education, and reintegration support.
The President called on parents, teachers, traditional rulers, religious leaders, youth groups, transport unions, local vigilantes, and the media to support efforts aimed at protecting children and preventing attacks on schools.
Speaking on this year’s Children’s Day theme, “Future Now: Promoting Inclusion for Every Nigerian Child,” Tinubu described Nigerian children as the nation’s pride and future leaders.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to investing in education, healthcare, nutrition, social protection, digital skills, and safer communities to ensure every child has access to opportunity and quality living conditions.
The statement coincided with growing national concerns over insecurity affecting schools in parts of northern Nigeria and recent cases of student abductions in some communities.
